COVID-19 has created a range of challenges for our Member shipowners and charterers around the globe. This dedicated site provides relevant information on best practices, important updates and links to important COVID-19 related maritime sites. For further information on issues or claims involving COVID-19, please contact your Managers' claims, FD&D or Loss Prevention departments for assistance.

General Guidance & Information

People infected by the COVID-19, the flu, or a cold typically develop respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose and a loss of taste and smell. As with other respiratory illnesses, infection with COVID-19 can cause mild symptoms including a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and fever. It can be more severe for some persons and can lead to pneumonia or breathing difficulties. More rarely, the disease can be fatal. Older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions (such as, diabetes and heart disease) appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus.

The incubation period is the time between infection and the onset of clinical symptoms of disease. Current estimates of the incubation period range from 1-12.5 days with median estimates of 5-6 days. These estimates will be refined as more data become available. Based on information from other coronavirus diseases, such as MERS and SARS, the incubation period of COVID-19 could be up to 14 days. The WHO recommends that the follow-up of contacts of confirmed cases is 14 days.

Furthermore, the International Group of P&I maintains the COVID-19 Restrictions Online Tracker that sources data from all 13 International Group Clubs, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), WHO and other leading sources, which can also assist ships with chartering, operations and help prepare staff for what to expect when arriving in port.

Trading to nations afflicted by infectious diseases may create charter party and contractual disputes. Each case will depend on its facts. Your Managers have prepared Infectious Diseases: Charter Party and Other Contractual Considerations for Members when considering charter parties and relevant contracts if trading in infectious disease afflicted regions.

Furthermore, it is recommended that Members consult with the Managers not only to coordinate their efforts, obtain advice and take appropriate measures to best protect their interests, but also to stay abreast of all new and significant developments in regard to any specific infectious disease outbreak.